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Bird Identification

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Cassin's Finch

Carpodacus cassinii Length: 6.25"

The Cassin's finch is very similar in appearance to its two more common cousins, the purple finch and house finch, but has a more strongly notched tail. It has a stronger preference for mountain forest habitat.

Field Marks

The male Cassin's finch has a red forecrown that is set off by brown at the back of the head. His chest is paler pink than that of the male purple finch's. The female Cassin's is more cleanly marked in brown and white than the female purple or house finch. Cassin's finch has a more elongated bill too.

Sounds

Song is similar to, but more musical than, that of the purple finch. Call is three syllables: giddyup!

hear the song/call of the Cassin's finch

Habitat

Mountain forests, especially conifers. Moves to lower elevations in winter, when it is more likely to visit feeders.

Backyard

Visits feeders for sunflower seeds and hearts, Nyjer seed.

Cassin's finch song provided courtesy of Lang Elliot, www.musicofnature.org. This profile is an excerpt from The Young Birder's Guide by Bill Thompson, III. Purchase an autographed copy from our nature store, and check out other BWD titles designed to help you identify backyard birds.

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